A synthesis of selected literature on mobility: a basis for studying impaired mobility

The concept of mobility can be found in the nursing diagnosis literature as impaired physical mobility, which is generally defined as limitations of physical movement within the environment. In this context, mobility is viewed within the confines of the physical realm. This conceptualization is restrictive in scope and therefore does not provide much direction for the nurse clinician. The theoretical basis of mobility must be strengthened to generate the knowledge necessary to understand impaired physical mobility. The purpose of this article is to present a consolidated review of the literature related to the concept of mobility. Studies from the social sciences are explored. Conceptual orientations from the health literature also are discussed. Finally, the nursing perspective is examined, including the measurement of the concept.